Cameras TheIssue 202: September 2013 on the Light ready at Broomhedge!

Castlewellan Holiday Week 2013 Rev David Turtle & Ivan Barr Impressions of Conference Lindsay Easson & Paul Good The Message of Conference 2013 Rev Brian Anderson Focus on Africa Tanzania - Kenya - Uganda - Nigeria The editor talks to Laura Nelson On the staff of Biblica Europe

THE MAGAZINE OF THE LISBURN AND DROMORE METHODIST CIRCUIT Contact Information: Contents:

Rev Brian Anderson 02 92662303 Broomhedge & Magheragall 07736715602 [email protected] 03 Shirley Carrington - 92607881 Impressions of Conference 2013 [email protected]

DAMASK Youth Officer 05 Peter Waugh - 07731487873 Space Academy at Trinity [email protected] www.seymourstreet.org 06 Prospects Lisburn Ministry Group

Rev David Turtle 92621282 07 [email protected] Joanne McConnell in Uganda www.trinitylisburn.com 08 Dromore & Priesthill Clare Jones at Capernwray Rev Colin Gracey- 92693929 09 [email protected] Reflections on Tanzania Billy Bryson - 97532147 www.priesthill-zion-methodist.com 11 The editor talks to Laura Nelson Magheragall and Broomhedge 13 Rev Peter Mercer- 90826920 [email protected] Marimanti School for the Deaf Rev Edmund Mawhinney - 92617433 14 [email protected] The Message of Conference 2013

Front cover: Rev David Turtle heading 17 downhill fast at Castlewellan Register 18 Reflections on Castlewellan Send material to: [email protected] If you have material or photos for the next edition of The Light please send them to the address above or give them to your church representative by Sunday 3rd November 2013 Sep 2013 02

Lost lamb bleats at Circuit, looked at the basics of operating a digital camera and the principles of editing. Andrew Boyes Magheragall! explained such things as depth of field, apertures, composition and how to carry out simple editing. Sunday 18 May was a special day for Magheragall Peter Mercer showed a series of photographs from Methodist. It was the occasion of the Sunday a recent photographic competition in the Methodist School anniversary service, with guest speaker Newsletter and asked the audience to score them, Mrs Shirley Carrington from Seymour Street. in an attempt to illustrate what made a good picture. Shirley is well known in the district for her The next session was a practical one, an afternoon enthusiastic and novel approaches to services, but outing to Hillsborough, where members took she excelled herself on this occasion when, as an photographs to be brought back for the next session example for her theme ‘The Lord is my Shepherd’, some weeks later, when they were examined and she brought a lamb (Martha) into the church. It was edited. There has been considerable interest in the a great sight to see Shirley running up and down subject and it is hoped to recommence in the the aisle, feed-bottle in hand, being actively autumn. pursued by the lamb, illustrating the psalm perfectly. The children, of course, were delighted with Martha and had a great time petting and stroking her. The small Sunday School also contributed with a well-thought-out sketch on the Feeding of the Five Thousand, with each member of the congregation being presented with a shortbread fish. The service concluded with a bread and soup lunch for about 80 in the church hail. It was a service that will long be remembered.

Cameras at the ready

Shirley and The professional in action the lost sheep

Getting the perfect photo Broomhedge Photography Club Broomhedge Methodist Church recently started a Photography Club to try to encourage those who have digital cameras, but have not really come to terms with all the features available to them, both at the time of taking a picture and in the editing afterwards. The initial session, which was also attended by members from other churches on the 03 Sep 2013 Impressions of the Methodist Conference Carrickfergus Methodist Church Lindsay Easson & Paul Good Lisburn & Dromore representatives

It was obvious the 2013 Methodist Conference was going to be different. It was not just that it was going to be led for the first time by a woman President, but even before Conference the delegates Photo: Rev Bert Montgomery across the country were called to meet in and the administration of the Church, and views Districts and think and pray about how the expressed as to how the church responds to the Methodist Church in Ireland should be 'A people ills of society. invited to follow', the Conference was extended by one day so that there would be sufficient time However from the start of the 2013 Conference to listen for God's voice as well as conduct the things were done differently. There was a clear official business of the Church, and additional call from the President for Conference to listen, youth and adult representatives were invited. pray, reflect, discuss and humbly search our God's leading - to be prepared ‘to get our feet If your only experience of Conference has been wet’ as we step out in faith. to browse a copy of the Three keynote speakers led 'Conference Minutes' you, our thoughts at like us, would have been Things were done Conference, Dr Phil expecting Conference to be Meadows from Cliff a rather dry gathering when differently this year! College, Pete Greig, one the great and good of the of the founders of the 24/7 prayer Methodist Church make pronoun movement, and Kate Marshall, Executive Coach -cements and decisions based on lengthy reports in the Arrow Christian Leadership Programme, prepared and submitted by a wide range of They took us through a progression from our committees. After all, decisions do have to be Methodist roots and heritage challenging our taken about money the stationing of ministers passion, spirituality, discipleship and mission, through to how we listen to God's voice today and how we respond to change as we listen and follow God's leading to new areas of mission and life. In each session there were opportunities to discuss in smaller groups and respond in various ways, and as the Conference progressed we were called to focus in on the situations in our Districts, Circuits and Societies. Having thought about what we felt were the issues holding back our spiritual life and mission we were asked to suggest what are the key questions that each Church needs to address. These sessions, together with the praise led by Ross Harte and the Soul Purpose Band, really set the tone of Conference, that it was not so much about administrative business, but about doing 'Business with God'. Delegates got the message loud and clear from the President and the The President in action leadership of the church - this is the time to step out in faith, to seek a new direction under God

Photo: Rev Bert Montgomery Sep 2013 04 for the Methodist Church in Ireland, ‘Soul Purpose’ leading the praise and like Joshua and the People of Israel, to step out in faith across the River Jordan. The Business In this year's Conference the Conversation on the Work of God' came first - and not last - another break with tradition! As the reports of the various church bodies, the Methodist Missionary Society(Ireland), Church Development Board, Home Mission

Department and the General Photo: Rev Bert Montgomery Committee unfolded it was clear that while many challenges face the Church there are of the church bodies was taken 'en bloc' and also many encouraging developments. For agreed without discussion. This included IMAYC example, in Dublin the presence of foreign the Methodist City Missions, Inter Church nationals is leading to new links with the Relations, Communications, MWI, Ministry of Methodist Church in Korea, and the Healing and a number of others. For the first Rev Wesley Campbell is to go time this year these and all the Reports to to Uganda to serve as a There was an Conference can be found on mission partner and the openness to God’s the Methodist Church Development Board website www. is supporting a new Surf irishmethodist.org. Project with a ministry to the leading During the meal times surfing community in the and coffee breaks West of Ireland. Following her delegates could year as President Rev Heather Morris is to be browse through the appointed Secretary of the Home Missions stalls set up by various charities and Department. support organisations and make new Perhaps the most heated debate of Conference acquaintances amongst the delegates from was whether the Methodist Missions should be across Ireland. allowed to receive Lottery Funding for some of their Social Care programmes as agreed by the Getting our Feet Wet Conference 2012. That decision was reversed. In contrast with previous conferences this year While time was given to key reports, much of the there was a real feeling of expectancy, and an Business of Conference in receiving the reports openness to God's leading. While at the end of and agreeing the recommendations from many Conference you could not claim there was a clear vision of a new way forward, there was a feeling Discussion session that the Methodist Church in Ireland is finding a new confidence that is has a message that the world needs to hear today and that it is starting to step out in faith, following in Jesus footsteps and ready to 'get its feet wet' like the children of Israel. Throughout conference people had time for each other - to listen to, debate with, empathise with, encourage and pray together. If we could take this simple premise back to each of our societies, circuits and districts, we could be a powerful force for good, a wonderful source of encouragement and a superb example of people Photo: Rev Bert Montgomery getting our feet wet - right where we are! 05 Sep 2013 Space Academy at Trinity

leaders languishing hopelessly behind the beat! The Bible stories related the exciting exploits of Daniel and his three friends in Babylon; and through these the children learned that God loves them, is with them and wants them to trust Him and follow Him.

We had several very keenly contested team quizzes based on the Bible talks. All the children really enjoyed the craft each night based on the Bible story, from jewelled crowns to fiery furnaces.

10... 9... 8... The memory verse for the week was unfurled God is great, from a 20 foot long scroll, a little each night, until 7... 6... 5... the children knew it off by heart: He's alive, 'Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean 4... 3... 2... 1... not on your own understanding. In all your ways He's the King of everyone, submit to the Lord and he will make your paths He's the mighty, mighty Lord of all...... straight.' Proverbs 3: 5-6. BLAST OFF!! The Space Academy ended with the parents ... and so began each night of the Trinity Space coming along to hear the songs, memory verse Academy Holiday Bible Club. and final Bible talk, followed by a family barbeque to round off the night. From 17th to 21st June, around 50 children came from Trinity church, from our youth It is our prayer that each child who came to the organisations and from the local area, attracted Space Academy will have gained something by the colourful Space Academy leaflet which which takes them further along, or even begins, they received through their letterbox or were their journey with God. given at school.

In the Space Academy we heard some 'space facts' from Elmo and his astronaut friend each night such as 'astronauts wash in space with a wet wipe.' Parachute games were a firm favourite with the younger children, while the older ones particularly enjoyed throwing newspaper balls at the opposition at a furious rate!

Each night the 'blast-off' opening was followed by lots of lively praise songs with some seriously aerobic actions, which left most of the Sep 2013 06 Prospects Lisburn Ministry Group leads at Trinity

On Sunday morning 21st April the praise in Trinity reached new heights as the congregation was swelled by members of the Lisburn Prospects Ministry Group (previously known as the Causeway Group). The group is affiliated to Prospects, a Christian charity enabling adults with learning disabilities, and meets every Monday evening in Trinity's buildings for worship and Bible teaching. On this particular Sunday the group was leading morning worship in Trinity. enable them to 'live life to the full.' It seeks to There was lively praise with musicians and provide distinct Christian support within the soloists from the group. The Bible reading on context of good and regulatory practice. the healing of the lame man by Peter and John (Acts 3: 1-10) came from the Easy to Read Bible Prospects is one of several organisations which the group uses. This translation is working to support people with learning especially for use by people with learning disabilities which uses the facilities at Trinity disabilities. The speaker, Dr Paul Coulter, through our TCI (Trinity Community Initiatives) illustrated his talk with a storyboard and pots of organisation. The local office is based in Trinity paint to reveal words and messages as his talk and the Ministry group (one of thirteen in progressed. Two of the group members spoke, Northern Ireland) meets weekly in Trinity. It is both of whom clearly enjoy their Monday evening our ethos that the resources we have in our meetings, followed by one of the volunteers who church buildings should be available for use by described the meetings as the highlight of his groups skilled to meet specific needs in the week. community. It was good for everyone to be reminded, through The Lisburn Group started in 1992 and now in this service, that our churches should be 2013 around 50 people meet together weekly for welcoming to all and that everyone has a part to vital Christian fellowship. Some group members play and gifts to bring to its life and witness. have been part of the group since the very beginning, while some have only joined this year. Prospects & Trinity The Monday evening meetings take place from Prospects is a UK Christian charitable group, the end of September until the end of May and founded in the mid-1970s, whose aim is to are full of lively worship, Bible teaching, praying support adults with learning disabilities and to for each other's needs and plenty of friendship and support. The meetings end, of course, with a cuppa at the coffee dock. At Christmas the Lisburn Group hosts a special Celebration for family and friends and this is a very special time of fellowship. Lisburn Prospects Ministry Group is led by a faithful team of volunteer leaders and helpers from various churches including Trinity and Seymour St. The team is always keen to welcome new members and volunteers. If you would like to find out more information you can get in touch with Debbie Davidson on 028 92602026 or visit the Prospects website, www.prospects.org.uk. 07 Sep 2013

When the opportunity to go to Uganda came about during my gap year, it was something that I couldn't turn down. Along with three friends I headed out to Uganda for 10 weeks and it was an experience that has changed me forever. We went to Dwelling Places, a Christian charity that is situated outside Kampala. They work with street children and high risk slum families by rescuing, rehabilitating and resettling the children. During our time there they had around 25 kids at the home, but they work with over 400 children and families. My work in Uganda My typical day would consist of walking to work from our guest house and hearing 'Muzungu' shouted at us so overjoyed and thankful that they could continue to from the all local children which means white person. send the children to school. It made all the effort of the We started every day off with staff devotions in which coffee morning so worthwhile! we had worship, testimonies and we all took our turns at giving a sermon. During my time at Dwelling Places The story of Bashir I was placed in the school where I worked every All of these incredible children have had a huge impact morning. They have a small school at the transitional on me and their testimonies are heart breaking, but for rehabilitation home (TRH) where they can teach the me one of these children stands out from the rest. children who are coming from the streets, basic maths Bashir who is 6 years old is now my sponsor child. and English to get them up to the level of the main Bashir's mother left their family, so his father remarried. schools. I was in the class where the children were Bashir's step mother started to abuse him so he had straight from the streets and due to their little amount enough and took to the streets to try and find his of English, it was tough to get them to listen, mother. He heard that Kampala, the main city, was the concentrate and do their work as this was so far from place that he needed to be. So Bashir begged for what they had grown up with and been used to enough money to pay for a lift on the back of a carrot previously. We would teach the children maths and truck for the 150 mile journey from his home town of English, play games and sing songs. After lunch we Mbale to Kampala. When Bashir reached Kampala he would take the children for devotions where it was so had nowhere to go, so he ended up living on the streets encouraging to see the spirit of God living through them of Kampala for 5 months, aged just 6! During my time as the children loved serving such an amazing Lord. there, Bashir got rescued and brought to Dwelling All of the kids have had such hard and difficult pasts, Places. Bashir was exactly what you imagine a street as they have been abused or abandoned by their child to look like, he was wearing dirty torn clothes, he families yet they all worship God with such love and was filthy and he smelled. But none of that mattered adoration and are so thankful for all that they have. because we all knew that he was the Lord's child and After devotions we would play games with the children he was welcomed in as the newest member to the and just spend time with them and remind them that Dwelling Place's family. The change in this terrified little they are loved. boy in only a matter of hours was incredible; all he needed was some love and attention. When we arrived An answer to prayer at work the next day, Bashir was running round with the Before going to Dwelling Places I held a coffee morning other children, so happy with the most beautiful big in which everyone at Magheragall Methodist was so smile. supportive and I raised a brilliant £2,300 for Dwelling Places. The day before we arrived some of the children A life changing experience who were resettled back in the community had been The experiences I had during my time in Uganda were told by their schools not to come back after the holidays, amazing and I have learnt so much and grown with the as Dwelling Places were so in debt with their fees. Lord. Everyone at Dwelling Places was so welcoming Everyone at Dwelling Places was praying hard that they and really appreciative of the work we did. These would be able to clear these debts, so when we arrived children have stolen my heart and I cannot wait to go the next day and surprised them with this money, we back to Uganda and work with them again. really did come as an answered prayer! Everyone was Sep 2013 08 Claire Jones

next step…Bible College! I knew that further training in Bible school was required in order to be accepted by a mission organisation, but every college I looked into didn't work out. I heard about Capernwray Hall from a friend who was a past student and it didn't take long before I knew it was the school for me. In September 2012, I said goodbye to the Isle of Man, packed up my car and headed across the Irish Sea to Lancashire. When I arrived at Capernwray, it was nearly as big a culture shock as going to Nigeria. Not only were most of the students much younger, but also British students were definitely in the minority! Over two-thirds of the students were from North America, with the rest being from countries all over the world. During the past The story so far… year I received excellent teaching, made lifelong Hi, my name's Claire…for those of you who don't friends from around the world and saw my know me, I've been going to Seymour Street relationship with God grow and deepen. since 1993 when my family moved to Lisburn. After finishing my pharmacy degree at Queen's New opportunity and future plans University, I moved to Glasgow for a training At the end of the year I was given an exciting year. While there, I started to hear God's call on opportunity to come back to Capernwray to work my life to the overseas mission field. I applied to as part of the pastoral care team, disciplining and do a gap year with Mission Africa (Qua Iboe mentoring the female students. I am very excited Fellowship) and worked for a year in Nigeria. I about how God will use this year as He prepares ventured out in 2009 with my friend Lynda, who me for the future. At the same time, I am still is a nurse, and together we worked in Holley making plans to head back to Nigeria when my Memorial Hospital in Nigeria's Kogi State. During year at Capernwray is finished. I would really this year we did staff training, outreach clinics, appreciate prayer for the coming year working at school work and children's clubs. It was quite a the Bible School, and for my preparations to culture shock to get used to living and working eventually go back to Nigeria. in Nigeria…on my first day I found a chicken hiding under my desk in my office! One great difference is that the gospel can be brought into everything and it was a common sight to see staff, patients and relatives praying together on the wards. Looking for the right College The year away was a fantastic experience and I felt strongly that God was calling me back to serve Him in Nigeria. When I came home I went to work on the Isle of Man for two years and during this time, God began preparing me for the 09 Sep 2013

Gillian Colligan, Christina Colligan and Michaela Johnston

On 27th July we travelled to Dodoma in Tanzania as part of a work and witness team with the charity Kids4school. We worked in 6 schools teaching about creation and engaging with the children through a variety of activities. We also spent some time sorting through and distributing clothes, stationary and toiletries are so thankful for all they do have. I feel there which had previously been sent to Tanzania in a are certain aspects of their lives particularly that container by people from Northern Ireland. simplicity that we need to adopt into our lives. My time in Tanzania has ultimately left me feeling very blessed and thankful for all I have and all Michaela the blessing God has given me. From spending time in Tanzania I feel I have brought back many of what I hope will be life changing lessons. Life in Tanzania is much more Christina basic and it reminded me we take much of what Having been in Africa before, I knew a little of we have for granted. We saw children who had what to expect. I knew I would see real poverty and yet it still shocked me. I don't think I could ever become used to seeing people with no food, dirty torn clothes, small one-roomed houses and certainly ever be able to see it as "normal". On one occasion we gave out clothes at a Church we visited. What struck me was that the clothes we were giving out were discarded by those at home, things they no longer wanted to wear. However, the Tanzanians had so little, and were so grateful for anything they received. The main lesson I have learned is to be more appreciative of everything. The people in Tanzania live in such poverty yet are full of joy. They find contentment in every situation and I never heard one person complain which really humbled me. I will try to to walk to water holes to get the family water for adopt this attitude, finding joy in life and every washing. Each time I turn on my water tap which situation. has clean safe water these images come back to me. It is hard to see children in these situations when they don't have running water or Gillian food. These people are always so full of joy no After visiting Tanzania last year I wanted to return matter how hard things are they still smile and and spend more time in this beautiful country with its lovely people. On my first trip I had been Sep 2013 10

playing football, playing skipping games, hopscotch and german jumps, blowing bubbles, giving out clothes, balloons and sweets. To see these children just being children and having fun was priceless. It is easy to feel disheartened at times by the enormity of all the things we wish we could change. We didn't move mountains but we spent time with them and came away believing we had done what we could and felt content with that.

shocked by the simplicity of peoples' lives and yet incredibly humbled by their contentment. A memory that I have from this trip is arriving at the schools and finding the children working in overcrowded classrooms with few desks and even fewer resources. With the help of an interpreter our team arrived each day and the atmosphere was transformed. We told the story of creation in school assemblies, sang songs and performed dramas. These are activities the children are not used to and they became so animated and happy. We stayed all day painting nails, painting wall murals, making bracelets,

Damask Community Outreach in Association with David Hull Promotions Hugo Duncan’s COUNTRY SHOW with supporting artists 11 Sep 2013 The editor talks to … Laura Nelson

Laura is Executive Secretary to the Director of BIBLICA Europe, Stephen Cave Laura was brought up in East Belfast where her parents were members of Bloomfield Presbyterian Church, and attended Ashfield Girls School. Although she made a Christian commitment in her teens her faith went through ups and downs for some years. It was through the faithfulness of Christian friends and colleagues that she developed a real assurance in her faith that shines through today in all she does. Laura joined Seymour Street after she Biblica married James Nelson in September 2011 - and is a leader in the BB Anchor Boys. Biblica's core role is Bible translating and During a gap year after school she worked briefly publishing, and its for Christians in Sport and enjoyed the mission is to see lives experience. Following this she took up a post as transformed through Personal Secretary and administrator in the God's Word. Biblica Evangelical Alliance working for Steve Caves. holds the rights to the Having now discovered a role she really New International enjoyed, Laura decided to study Public Relations Version (NIV) which is at the University of Ulster and continued working the world's most trusted and most read English part time for the Evangelical Alliance. version, and similar translations in the world's In the meantime Biblica, formerly the major languages. Biblica operates across the International Bible Society, was looking for a world in seven regions and its European Division Director for its new European Division and is based in Belfast where there is a staff of 6. 'head-hunted' Steve Caves, Laura's boss. When Supplementing its core role Biblica also Steve took on that role he asked Laura to move promotes Bible Engagement though promoting with him and electronic access to the Bible - mobile phone and continue her work tablet apps, speech versions, special editions of as his executive the Scriptures - through leadership training, assistant (and community Bible experiences and youth projects. general factotum!). With such a small staff based in Belfast Laura Laura accepted the has to turn her hand to many roles, from taking challenge and after Minutes and booking flights, to organising the 4 ½ years with the printing of special editions of the Scriptures. One Evangelical Alliance of the most exciting was the printing of 600,000 she has been copies of the New Testament Queen's Jubilee working for 2 ½ Edition. Biblica was able to make contact with years for Biblica the Royal Household, and the Queen not only (Europe) based in endorsed it, but had an 8 page section included Belfast. about herself, her faith, and why she would like people to have access to God's Word! More recently another special edition was prepared for Sep 2013 12 the World Police and Fire Games in Belfast. of Scripture combined in a simple narrative so that it can be read in context. With Laura's enthusiasm a Community Bible Experience group has been meeting in Seymour Street since Christmas and has completed reading through the New Testament. The group meets on a Sunday morning at the same time as Sunday School so that parents leaving children off for Sunday School can attend. Members read about 10 pages per day of the narrative version of the Bible and then when they meet they discuss the answers to a series of straightforward questions such as, 'What have I learned about Community Bible Experience Jesus?', 'What have I learned about myself?'. This is very different from a traditional Bible In today's society many people know practically Study, it is more like a book club! Typical nothing about the Bible and have never read it. comments from members are - 'I didn't think the An recent exciting Biblica project is the Bible could be that easy to read!', 'It makes the Community Bible Experience for which a Bible really come alive', 'I really enjoyed it'. specially edited version of the Bible has been prepared which reads more like a novel that a The Seymour Street group will be restarting in traditional Bible. The verse numbers and October when it will be reading through the next chapters have been removed and the passages Bible section, the Books of the Covenant. DAMASK youth programme is Activated

Activate The Damask youth programme is developing rapidly under the leadership of Pete Waugh who was appointed as Damask Youth Worker in June with grant aid from Tear Fund. During 6 weeks over the summer there has been a sports skills programme in the evenings which has attracted up to 30 young people from the locality. Seymour Street young people have helped lead this programme and ensure its success. The assistance of Lisburn City Council sports coaches and Salt Ministries was appreciated and there was also a partnership with the Lisburn Fellowship Church.

Drop-in Plans are now in place to run an ‘After Schools’ programme every Wednesday and Thursday from 3.30 – 5.30 in Seymour Street Methodist Halls. The after schools drop-in is for anyone in years 8 – 14. The first day of the drop-in will be Wednesday 11th September and we will be running during term time. There will be a variety of things to do such as play computer games, sports, craft workshops, a coffee bar and a homework area. We would love to see you come to the drop-in! Engage Youth Nights Launching on Friday October 4th, Engage Youth Nights are interactive creative arts and sports based nights for young people. All young people in years 8-11 are welcome to come along and get involved. We will be running different workshops every Friday night involving DJ’s, graffiti artists, Hip-Hop Dancers, professional sports coaches and loads more. There will also be occasional trips and time to hang out in the coffee bar at Seymour Street Methodist Halls. 13 Sep 2013

Don’t miss the opportunity to hear to story of.. Marimanti School for the deaf

Helen Moorehead who recently return from Kenya after eight years serving with the Methodist Missionary Society will tell the story of how she started and developed the Marimanti School for the Deaf. Sunday 15th September 7pm. Ballynahinch Methodist Church

school, these children now have other options open to them.

"My biggest hope is that the children will come to know and love Christ," says Helen. Helen has seen the first generation of children grow up through the school and the numbers attending the school steadily increase. The Kenya government has recognised the high standard which have been set at the Marimanti School for the Deaf by Helen and have agreed to fund the posts of Head Teacher and the the other staff.

The first pupils and the first classroom Nevertheless the School will need ongoing support from Northern Ireland and so, now that Helen has returned to Northern Ireland she is Helen Moorehead, from Portadown, Northern setting up a Trust Fund which will support the school. Ireland, went to Kenya in 2006 to teach at the Meru School for the Deaf which is funded by There is so much more to Helen story - so make sure the Methodist Church in America After a year you are there on 15th September to hear her for she felt that there were other areas where there yourself! were no facilities for the deaf and so she moved to Marimanti, in the Tharaka district, which has a very high incidence of deafness amongst children.

Over the last seven years Helen has developed a new School for the Deaf which now has eight classrooms, dormitories, an administration block and a Church along with other facilities. Starting with only 4 pupils and the building of one classroom in 2007 Helen received financial support from Christians in Northern Ireland who knew of, and were praying for, her work. It is an amazing story of faith in action, and determination to give the deaf children of the area opportunities in life which up to now have A recent picture of Helen with senior pupils been denied them.

The children in Helen's school range in age from Seymour Street was pleased to be able to six to 13. Tharaka is a very traditional area welcome mission partner Pat Jamison when she where deafness is seen as a bad omen, and was home on furlough in the summer from deaf children are usually either hidden away or Bangladesh. sent out to take goats grazing. Thanks to Helen's Sep 2013 14

Picture the scene with me, or rather let's it amazing things through you, has been rewarded as you and your people have been live it together. You are a Priest, one of the main saved. What a God. religious persons in the nation and you are carrying the Ark of the Covenant, it feels good to This is the theme and challenge of President have such a Heather Morris to all Methodists and their churches this year, Will we have the courage and position. You, faith to step out into some unknown for the sake with others, are of extending the Kingdom. leading a crowd of excited yet Conference 2013 was a "Getting uncertain people. Joshua has told our Feet Wet Experience" you to lead and for the people to fall in behind. It Conference 2013 was a "Getting our Feet Wet is time to leave Experience". Very different to any that had gone Egypt behind before. How was it? with its slavery The main differences were in emphasis and and oppression, expectations. It remained the place of decision Brian leading a Session but ahead is the making for the Methodist Church e.g. the Great River permission to apply for Lottery monies in Jordan, flowing at its greatest height and beyond particular circumstances was overturned- but we that is the land you have been promised. You structured it in such a way that inspiration, begin to think you are going to be between a rock and a hard place? No way back, the way ahead blocked. But Joshua said "Consecrate yourselves tomorrow the Lord will do amazing things through you." Through me!!! You lead, the river comes closer and closer, the torrent of water flows, the noise is deafening, but you walk on like a pirate about to reach the end of the plank. Then, just as you reach the water, as your toes get wet, the water upstream stops flowing, as does the downstream flow. You cannot believe what is happening. The wet under your toe is replaced by dry, liquid is replaced by stones Your faith in God has been wonderfully rewarded, the courage of believing God can do 15 Sep 2013 listening and teaching could be Discipleship among us- I will come included. Under the title "A back to this in a moment. PEOPLE INVITED TO FOLLOW" it looked something FOLLOW - like this: If we are going to be real about A PEOPLE- following Jesus, how do we move to take what is great about What in our Methodist heritage Methodism in areas of Leadership that is relevant to today? Phil and Discipleship, how do we make Meadows, a lecturer of on that Change. Kate Marshall - a Wesley, lead us to think about trained church consultant among what were the Spiritual other things- looked at the ‘c’ word passions that fuelled the revival CHANGE. If we are hearing a new that gave birth to Methodism. thing how is it implemented? Dr Phil Meadows He revisited John Wesley's Overall it was amazing what God thoughts on moving from a did at this Conference. I was so Form of Religion to a power of privileged to help shape the Godliness. He pointed to the "Following" day, and being at the front directing Wesleyan view on growth through "rejoicing people for prayer, watching 2s and 3s breaking always, praying without ceasing and in all things into their prayers were they sat, it was clear God giving thanks. That we can be a people who are was moving in people and that was humbling and "everyday disciples." How do we move from inspiring. Doing Church to re-igniting the "Power of Religious Faith?" We then held discussions in Districts to tease

The Down District Representatives

INVITED - these themes out more, and you will hear more in due course. God is an inviting God- sometimes it is to come Leadership and Discipleship and at other times to go, but do we give him time to speak. Pete Grieg from 24.7 prayer movement, helped prepares us to listen to GOD. But I would like to share a few thoughts on He spoke about Samuel learning to hear God Leadership and Discipleship from the example rather than thinking it was a human voice. He of Moses. drew our attention to God speaking to the young In Numbers 11, during the national saga of Israel person and not the Priest; that His voice was during the wilderness years - as they wandered heard as a normal voice- not the big booming huge demands were on Moses. Although his noise; and that God kept on calling. shoulders were broad he found it too much, so We then spent a significant time listening to God, he complained to God for help. God responded and many many Methodist people wrote up, and said "get the 70 registered elders together painted, and drew what they heard God saying. at the tent of meeting and I will come down and Many words and pictures were produced but two talk with you there.” And God did what he said major themes emerged- God was calling us to a he would do, came down in a pillar, and lifted new form of Leadership and seeking to re-ignite some the spirit off Moses and gave it to the 70, and they prophesied. Sep 2013 16

Photo: Rev Bert Montgomery A Discipleship that Renews the Church.

What if we took time as the local congregation to Listen to God? Really listen, not saying “here's my idea God, now you bless it!”. What if we included our young people in the listening, with all their naivety and idealism. Then having listened, record the stirring in a church programme that is built, based on listening, Some things change, but not the sifting and progressing! imposing Platform organisation! Linked to a collective spiritual form of leadership is an encouragement for Methodists to recapture what Rev Heather Morris says is being "on Fire Problem solved - Moses was helped- the 70 were with the Love for God, each other and the world". involved and all was neat and tidy. The help came from the right people, at the proper place, In our tradition a part of Methodist Genius is the in the proper way, great order- perfect. class system, a group of Christians coming Delegates write and draw on the ‘walls’ with their vision of what the Would that all the LORD’S Lord is saying to Conference People were prophets

However, that is not the whole story- Joshua, noticed that two of the 70 elders. Eldad and Medad, were prophesying even although they not gone with the others to the Tent of Meeting. “Well”, thought Joshua " Moses must tell them to stop - get some order back!” But Moses responded “Nonsense, are you jealous for my sake? Would that all the LORD’S People were prophets and that the LORD would put his spirit on them!" Moses laid propriety aside. He set the order in its place and gave the Spirit right of way. The Bible confirms that God's Spirit is available to all Photo: Rev Bert Montgomery his people, as the Prophet Joel said – “sons and daughters - male and female - free and slave” together for Prayer, Bible Study and a place for shall all prophecy and see visions, affirmed by safe sharing, and not what we know it as today. Peter in New Testament in Acts 2” I play golf about 4 times in the summer with Bryan, Jim and Ian. We go way back to my How does your Church make teenage years in Cregagh; we have shared many moments in life together, church and family ones decisions? in particular. We are good friends; it is that type of relationship that as soon as we meet it is as if we were with each other the day before. At 16th How does your Church make its decisions, how Tee at Carnalea, a conversation began on how are you guided. Does it largely come from the our Friendship needed to return to a deeper top and we look to the minister to have the ideas- spiritual level, so now we are going to meet once which can be the latest religious fad based on a a month to read the bible, prayer and share programme devised by some mega church in together. It is what Mr Wesley would call a band. America- or does it come from serious leadership Yes of course I could do other things with the listening to God, searching for his direction Friday night, but the 4th October is in my diary through prayer and fasting. and I will be the stronger for the time. Yes I will 17 Sep 2013 attend the bible study, have my quiet times but the real difference is the place of honesty. When asked how it is going, I can speak knowing my friends will be there, have my permission to challenge what I say and be prayerful. I suspect that some of our House groups lack that place of honesty? For me it has been important enough

Reflections on Conference. to leave some good things to do what I believe is the God Thing. actually we do need to go back as we move Could we gather together a mixture of house forward. That God has spoken and we have a groups and/ or bands to keep the flames of faith sense that he is calling us back to be passionate burning? about him, and think again about the model of leadership we use. I lay a challenge to each Could we arrange that in our churches small Methodist on CIRCUIT to put your copy of bands of Christians would come together, "The Light" down, stop and begin to pray. weekly, fortnightly to share Christian experience "Lord renew in me the joy of my Salvation, together to aid our warmed hearts? Folks we create in me a clean heart, and show to need to get off this merry-go-round of running rejoice always, pray without ceasing and to the church and start seeking the power of God give thanks in all things," then stay there and into our daily lives and to fuel our souls by Listen for God spending time with Jesus and our Christian friends. There are many Good things to be done, but the wisdom of the disciple is to find the God thing The constant message from Conference said and to do that. "we can't go back" I have taken that to mean that

From the registers..

Seymour Street BAPTISMS DEATHS Harry Leonard, son of John and Donna Twinem Mrs Ruby Huddleson, 7 Harmony Fold Cody Phillip John, son of Phillip and Mandy Carswell Trinity WEDDINGS DEATH David Campbell and Becky Irwin Mr George Leatham, 12 Beechdene Gardens Daniel Anderson and Lynsey Anderson Emmanuel Branney and Nadine Anderson Dromore Andrew Wilson and Caroline Gilmore DEATH Stephen Pierce and Holly Anderson Mrs Rhoda Ringland, August 8th Sep 2013 18 Castlewellan Holiday Week 2013 The thoughts of David Turtle & Ivan Bar

week and many activities including the legendary Castlewellan waterslide were present this year. In the absence of any other participating clergy from the Lisburn and Dromore circuit, I took an early lead in this prestigious competition of speed, skill and strategy, but sadly watched the trophy be snatched away only a few minutes later. Maybe next year!

As has been the case over the past number of years, our family have returned from Castlewellan once Castlewellan again looking forward to Holiday Week has next year. It is a week of become one of the friendship, fellowship and events which have fun with a culture and become ‘unmissable’ in atmosphere all its own – our family’s annual a week we would calendar. The children recommend to anyone. and youth programmes, David Turtle and the opportunity to meet and spend time with friends old and new, create an enthusiasm for the week which means there is no danger of us passing the early-bird booking discount deadline – we have plenty of reminders! This year’s ‘Castlewellan’ had the added benefit of great weather which all added up to a fantastic week.

The adult programme had as the main speaker Andy McCourt who, under the theme of ‘Unstoppable’, shared some foundational principles of how the church should move Some forward. I was only there for a few mornings as thoughts about I travelled back and forth to Lisburn, but found Castlewellan... that those I was present for were really challenging and inspiring. Other speakers and This was our fifth year at the Castlewellan seminars also brought helpful insights on the Holiday Week. Every time we've been it's been various evenings during the week. While the a different experience. This year the theme was adult sessions were taking place, the amazing titled “Unstoppable”. The teaching was all about youth and children’s team taught and the church and the “fantastic four” from Acts entertained the young people each morning and 2v42. These are the apostles teaching, evening. fellowship, the breaking of bread and prayer. It was good to be reminded about these However, Castlewellan is not just about fundamentals and that the purpose of the church programmes, teaching and wonderful worship; is to reach out as an unstoppable force working there is also a culture of relaxation and fun which with God in the world. We were challenged as permeates the wide range of ages who attend. we compared our own experience and practise While each afternoon is free time, the open day to that of the early Christians. Every day in all on Wednesday is one of the highlights of the age worship we were encouraged to put on the Castlewellan Holiday Week 2013 continued……

armour of God. “open day” and lots of fun activities were laid on, In different fun not least the famous Castlewellan Water Slide. ways we Here we had the annual curious display of many learned the of our Methodist Ministers (including our own serious point David Turtle) competing for the distance cup. that God equips This year even the President Heather Morris us when he gave it a go and raised some money for MMSI calls us. in the process.

We keep going back to Castlewellan because The kids we enjoy meeting and sharing with other Christians (not all Methodists!) from all over Ireland. The times of teaching and worship are challenging and inspirational. Fellowship programme was groups and themed “Junior seminars give an Heroes”. Our boys opportunity to enjoyed meeting up with friends from previous years and making some new friends too. The Youth and Children's team were great with the kids. The boys really looked up to their leaders and loved going to their club time. They learned about children in the bible such as Samuel and David.

discuss real issues with others. The kids love their programme and are already talking about next year! All this set against the beautiful backdrop of Castlewellan with it's lake, castle and forest. We stayed in the castle and were very well fed! The kids also enjoyed the Maud's Ice Cream parlour in the Castle cellar.

Castlewellan Holiday Week is truly something unique and special. We're very glad Afternoons were free for relaxation or taking part we found it and hope many more can come and in some of the planned activities. This year the experience it for themselves. We know you weather was fantastic. Highlights for our family would enjoy it too! were canoeing and archery. A (plastic) duck hunt Ivan Barr and a walk with Forestry Service Rangers looking for bugs and butterflies. Wednesday was